Our native wildlife is under pressure like never before - from erosion of habitats, climate changes and diseases such as that affecting bees. But with a little effort (or even lack of it - see below) we can all do our bit to help. "But what difference can I make?", you ask, "I only have a small urban garden". In fact you have a million acres! Not you personally, of course, but all of you together, so if we all do a bit, the overall effect could be very significant. And we will also improve our own personal environment by encouraging the birds, butterflies and bees we love to see. Here are our top ten tips for encouraging wildlife in your garden.

1 Flowers for colour - and more

It may seem obvious but don't forget to include plenty of colourful flowers to attract and feed bees, butterflies and other insects. Almost all flowers will do (that is what they are for, after all) but some are particularly suitable - click here to see our full list of wildlife-friendly varieties. We also offer a range of wildflowers which are ideal for wildlife.

2 Take another look at your lawn

You may not think lawns can offer much for wildlife , but in fact they are home to a host of insects which in turn provide food for birds and other animals. By avoiding the use of chemicals, leaving the grass a lttle longer (around 3 - 5cm) and mowing less often (say, every two weeks but certainly no more than weekly) you will encourage these harmless insects to thrive. Leaving the grass longer during winter and not mowing again until March will provide shelter and hibernation sites for many insects.

3 Beautiful grasses

If you can leave an area of longer grass - 20-30 cm - that is even better as it will provide shelter for grasshoppers, lacewings and many other creatures, as well as producing seed as food for birds. Alternatively plant taller ornamental grasses in the border, which can have the same effect.

4 Don't throw out all the deadwood

Leave a pile of dead wood in a shady spot and this will serve as a shelter for beetles and other insects.

5 Our feathered friends

Birds are among the most welcome garden visitors, so encourage them to stay by providing food and nesting sites such as boxes (out of reach of cats!).

6 Urban oasis

Even a small pond can be a little oasis for wildlife, attracting beautiful dragonflies, offering water for birds and small animals,and providing habitats for frogs, newts and many aquatic insects.

7 Be more patient with pests

Try to avoid the use of chemicals to control pests. - instead, encourage their natural predators with plants which will attract them, for example chamomile, marigolds and hyssop.

8 Make a bee house

You can encourage bees by providing bee houses in your garden. You can buy them, but they are quite easy to make. All you need is a flower pot or wooden box and some bamboo sticks or pieces of wood. Or simply create a wood pile in your garden - this will work just as well. Bees like warmth and shelter, so fix their home in a south-facing spot but not in direct sunlight. The entrance must also point downwards so that rain doesn't get in.

9 Plant a herb garden

Borage, chives, comfrey, fennel, hyssop, lavender, lemon balm, lovage, mint, rosemary and thyme all encourage beneficial insects as well as producing delicious ingredients for the kitchen. Take a look at our herb range.

10 Lastly and least effort of all - do nothing!

Leave a corner of the garden undisturbed and it willl naturally become a haven for wildlife - what could be easier? If there are a few logs and old pots for shelter so much the better.